Soludo pardons native doctor Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, appoints him Youth Reformation Ambassador

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Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has granted a pardon to popular native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki.

Nwangwu was among eight native doctors arrested last year over allegations relating to the promotion of money rituals, quick wealth and the use of human parts for ritual purposes.

Earlier this year, he entered into a plea bargain with the Anambra State Government and was subsequently sentenced to 11 months in custody.

He was committed to the Nigeria Correctional Service facility in Amawbia, Anambra State, and was required to renounce his fetish practice and commit to supporting the state government’s youth reformation programme.

Nwangwu accepted the conditions and had been serving his sentence until Governor Soludo exercised the prerogative of mercy in his case.

Under the new arrangement, the native doctor has also been designated as an Ambassador for Youth Reformation in Anambra State.

The governor’s Special Adviser on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha, disclosed the development following Soludo’s visit to the correctional facility.

Omenugha expressed appreciation to the governor for granting Nwangwu clemency and giving him an opportunity to take on a new responsibility.

“Thank you, Mr Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, for graciously extending your hand of mercy to Chidozie Nwangwu (Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki) and giving him a new responsibility as Ambassador for Youth Reformation,” Omenugha said.

He described the decision as consistent with the state government’s approach to youth reformation, stressing that the programme goes beyond punishment to include rehabilitation and reintegration.

“This is the heart of Youth Reformation: not just punishment, but correction, restoration, a new purpose and A New Onye Anambra,” he added.

The pardon brings an early end to Nwangwu’s 11-month custodial sentence, while his new role is expected to involve supporting efforts aimed at discouraging harmful practices and promoting positive values among young people in the state.